When Adelanto Mayor Richard Kerr took office, he was saddened to learn just how many of the city’s 31,000-plus residents are receiving public assistance and living at or below the poverty line. Almost 62 percent of Adelanto residents collect welfare benefits and many more can be counted among the working poor who can barely make ends meet with low-paying jobs.
The mayor and his wife, Mistey, decided to take action. In December, with the assistance of former NFL player Turk McBride, the city was able to assist 1,000 of the city’s neediest families with holiday groceries.
As another holiday season is nearing, the Kerrs wanted to help again. “With Easter and Spring Break happening soon, we wanted to make sure that our residents in need had another option to take care of their families,” said Mayor Kerr.
The mayor and his wife asked for support from those who shared their concerns for Adelanto residents. The response was overwhelming. Two sources, along with the Kerrs, donated cash. Representatives from four non-profits located in Adelanto made trips to a food bank to purchase name brand food “dirt cheap.
“We have been receiving so many food items that 10 dedicated volunteers have been stocking four, 12 foot by 12 foot rooms that are almost completely full with food,” said Mayor Kerr. “We’re expecting that we’ll have enough food to give each family at least 2-3 bags to help them through the Easter holiday.”
The result is an Easter food giveaway scheduled for Saturday, March 19, 2016, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Swapping Mamas will be also on hand to give clothing to those who need it
The event will take place at the Glasper Center, 17537 Montezuma Street in Adelanto. Overflow parking will be located at the Adelanto City Hall.
All Adelanto residents are eligible for the help with food and clothing. “We’re not concerned about a person’s income level for them to participate, the only requirement to share in the food and clothing giveaway is proof that they live in Adelanto,” said Kerr.
Mayor Kerr hopes this is an event that will continue for years to come. His desire is for it to become a tradition future mayors carry on.
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